Michael John Van Surksum

DOON, IOWA ~ Michael John Van Surksum, 40, of Doon, Iowa entered the arms of his Savior on Thursday, June 5, 2025, following a tragic work accident. He died as he lived—putting others above himself with a servant’s heart and selfless courage. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Trinity Christian Reformed Church in Rock Valley, Iowa with Rev. Bobby Van Otterloo officiating. The service will be livestreamed at https://vimeo.com/event/4077519. Visitation with the family will be from 5:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday, June 11, at Trinity Christian Reformed Church.

   In lieu of flowers, a Van Surksum Benefit Fund has been established. If you wish to make a donation, please bring your donation to Trinity Christian Reformed Church (2020 8th St SE, Rock Valley, IA 51247) or any Peoples Bank location. Checks may be made payable to Van Surksum Benefit Account.

   Michael John Van Surksum was born on October 3, 1984, to Lloyd and Paula. Michael's mischievous spirit was evident from a young age, especially when surrounded by his siblings. His energy and humor filled every room he entered, making friends wherever he went and lighting up lives with his contagious laugh and quick wit.

   Michael attended Central Lyon and Rock Valley schools and later completed training through Denison Job Corps. He found great pride in his work as an electrician, in pouring concrete, and in taking on just about any project that involved getting his hands dirty, especially if he could put his boys to work alongside him on a Saturday morning. He was a hardworking member of the team at AWS, where he formed close bonds with his coworkers.

   Outside of work, Michael lived life with bold joy. He loved boating, cheering on local athletes at racetracks and wrestling mats, gathering around campfires, and catching games under Friday night lights and in packed gyms. He especially treasured his trips to Mexico, Las Vegas, the Boundary Waters, and Okoboji—especially the fishing adventures shared with his sons. Jeep rides with his daughter, music cranked and windows down, were sacred moments he held dear.

   He married the love of his life, Michaela Noelle De Jager, his “Honey,” on August 26, 2005, in a beautiful outdoor ceremony on her family’s farm. Together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and laughter. They were blessed with five beautiful children who were the light of Michael’s life: Keegan John, Kyson Michael, Kyler Dale, Makiah Noelle, and Karsten Jay “Bubba.” He adored each of them and never missed a chance to tell others just how proud he was of his family.

   Michael had a deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He was baptized and made his Profession of Faith. He was a member of Trinity Christian Reformed Church in Rock Valley, where he worshipped and served with devotion. His favorite Bible passage, Ephesians 6:10-18, was proudly tattooed on his arm—his faith marked not only his skin but every decision he made.

   Known for being the life of the party, the friend who showed up, and the guy who could fix just about anything, Michael had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. Whether he was tinkering in the garage, offering a helping hand, or just showing up with a joke and a smile, his presence brought joy.

   Michael leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him but remembered always for his heart of gold, his devotion to his family, and his unwavering faith in God.

   Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 20 years, Michaela; sons, Keegan, Kyson, Kyler, Karsten; daughter, Makiah; mother, Paula (Galen) Kats; siblings, Mandy (Craig) Van Den Berg, Josh Van Surksum, and Shea Van Surksum; step-siblings, Jeremy, Trisha (Joel), and Jeff; father and mother-in-law, Mike and Margaret De Jager; brother and sisters-in-law, Jesse, Lacey (Jeremy), and Kasia (David); many nieces and nephews, whom he loved very much; great-aunt, Betts; aunt, Donna (Marv); uncle, Darlo; and grandmothers, Patricia Kats and Beth Lupkes.

   Michael was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd Van Surksum; grandmother, Cora Van Surksum; grandfather, Gary Van Surksum; infant niece, Peyton; and grandfathers, Paul Kats and Lawrence Lupkes.